Black Walnut
Juglans nigra • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight with soft cathedral and irregular figure; presence of pin knots and varied clusters suggesting semi-porous growth ring transitions.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light greyish-brown to deep chocolate brown with dark streaks. Sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It tends to lighten and take on gold/orange hues with age/UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,010 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, veneer, interior trim, flooring, gunstocks, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States and Ontario, Canada.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot depending on width and figure quality.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber; lacks heavy oxidation or deep 'walnut patina' seen in century-old samples.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools. Responds well to steaming for bending; glues, stains, and finishes well, though large pores may require filling for a glass-smooth finish.
Notable Features
Distinctive mild spicy scent when cut. Contains juglone which can be an allergen for some woodworkers. Known for high dimensional stability after drying.
Finish Recommendations
Danish oil, Tung oil, or Shellac to enhance grain depth; Polyurethane for high-wear areas like flooring or tables.
Identification Confidence
High; the chocolate-brown heartwood versus creamy sapwood contrast, grain structure, and visible surface texture are classic indicators of Juglans nigra.